Gladys was rejected by her natural mother at a Texas zoo in March. She was transferred to Cincinnati, where humans acted as surrogates in hopes that one of the zoo's existing female gorillas would take over.

Gladys began the introduction to her new mom, “M’Linzi” on June 17, and the zoo said staff are positive that the two have bonded and will remain together.

For the last week, staff have watched as M’Linzi, 30, has carried Gladys gently from one area to the next, allowed Gladys to pick at her food, slept with Gladys for naps and overnight, watched as Gladys received her daily bottles and comforted Gladys at any sign of distress.